Tour an Exquisite Beaux Arts Residence in San Francisco

In a prime location in Cow Hollow, on the northern slope of the rarified Pacific Heights neighborhood, this light-filled three-story Beaux Arts home dates to the early 20th century.

The building’s façade retains much of the charm for which San Francisco is renowned, with a gently arching brick doorway and an elaborately decorative iron entry gate.

A tasteful renovation by California-based designer Brooke Wagner brought to its timeless interiors modern amenities and conveniences while paying utmost respect to the lines, details, and architectural elements particular to the Beaux Arts aesthetic. Architectural enhancements were made by Lewis Butler, from Butler Armsden Architecture.

Two stairways and a paneled elevator access the home’s three welcoming floors. The home was the 2017 winner of the HGTV People’s Pick Award for Inspired Design.

Within, many historic touches remain, from ornately detailed fireplaces—one in the living room and another in the family room—classical window frames and transoms, handsome moldings, and intricate cornices.

Coffered ceilings have been refurbished.

The home’s kitchens have been updated. One is suitable for any gourmet, boasting a wood-topped island with seating for four, impressive stainless-steel appliances, and a variety of wood and glass cabinetry.

Crisp, clean, and efficient, the “entertaining” kitchen on the third level has an ultra-modern profile, with marble countertops, a built-in gas cooktop, and sleek dark-gray cabinetry.

Contemporary accents add whimsy to the lower-level family room, which boasts an eye-catching arched brick fireplace original to the home.

Two sets of French doors open to a backyard deck and garden.

Spaces for living, dining, and entertaining are plentiful.

The formal living and dining room occupy the rear portion of the third level, both with double glass doors to a deck with a colorful vista of the city and the bay.

The dining room includes a wall dedicated to a period built-in mirrored buffet; a marble-topped bar with a wine chiller adjoins.

On the second level is another open living and dining area, where glass doors give way to yet another bay-view balcony.

A clear railing on the enviable rooftop deck allows for direct views across the city toward the Palace of Fine Arts, the waters of the bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Located throughout the home, the five guest bedrooms offer the rare combination of refined style and consummate comfort—each suffused with San Francisco’s distinctive lovely light.

On the topmost floor, the master bedroom features French doors, hardwood floors, an adjoining sitting room with a fireplace and a plethora of built-in storage, and a walk-in closet and dressing room.

The master bath exemplifies chic sophistication with contemporary fixtures and hardware, a glass-door shower, and a jetted soaking tub.

This rare home, which includes a garage, is offered fully furnished for a true turnkey experience. Cow Hollow, nestled between the Presidio, Russian Hill, the Marina district, and Pacific Heights, affords proximity to numerous amenities.

The home is steps from Union Street and only blocks from Fillmore Street and Alta Plaza Park.